Energy investors sound alarm for water

There was a warning for water policymakers at last week’s Funding Renewables conference.

Investors discussing the problems of retaining investor confidence in renewables largely focused on uncertainty around Electricity Market Reform. But speakers also pointed out that the permitting process in the UK was a major barrier. There were hints that any change to water licences needed care.

John Bromley, senior investment manager at the Ampere Equity Fund, said: “No-one wants to hear: ‘We only give our water permits for five years – but don’t worry, we can renew it.'” Investors would like all permits for the life of the plant, he said.

This article first appeared in Utility Week’s print edition of 29 June 2012.

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